With spring starting early this year on March 19 and Daylight Saving Time on March 8, now is a good time to review spring safety tips. From spring cleaning to spring break traveling, there are many traditions to look forward to as we enter the new season. As fun your plans may be, we know all too well that accidents can happen at any time. Here are a few spring safety reminders to help you and your family enjoy all of the festivities that spring brings.
Spring Safety Indoor Checklist
- Check your smoke alarms. – The National Fire Protection Association states that almost three out of five home fire deaths occurred in homes with no smoke alarms or non-functioning smoke alarms. Double-check your alarms to make sure they are all functioning properly and have a fresh set of batteries.
- De-clutter your medicine cabinet. – If you think taking expired medicine is okay, you may want to think again. According to Poison Control, all expired medicine should be disposed of properly and never be taken, as they will not work as well as they should. To properly dispose of expired medicine, mix the expired products with garbage in a sealed container, and throw them in a trash.
- Install Carbon Monoxide detectors. – If you have appliances that burn fuel, such as a gas-powered stove, it can become a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. If you do not have carbon monoxide detectors, consider installing them in a central location outside of the bedroom and on every level of the home if applicable. For those who have detectors installed, make sure they are functioning properly and change the batteries.
Outdoor Spring Safety Checklist
- Double-check your lawnmower before cleaning. – Check all small parts such as filters, bolts, and safety shields that are intact and working properly. If your blades are looking dull, consider replacing them or taking them to a professional to have them sharpened.
- Wear protective gear when lawn mowing. – You never know what is lying in the grass as you are mowing. It is important to wear protective gear at all times while lawn mowing. This means wearing long pants, closed-toe shoes, and protective eyewear.
- Practice ladder – If your spring outdoor activities involve using a ladder, use caution. When using a ladder, make sure it is tall enough where you will not have to extend your reach, place it on a firm and level ground, and place it straight or at a 75-degree angle. If you can, also have someone support you by holding on to the bottom.
- Replace windshield wipers on cars. – Springtime may mean flowers in bloom and sunshine; however, come April and May, and we enter the beginning of the rainy season in Miami. In preparation, check that your car’s windshield wipers are working properly and replace it if needed to improve visibility during rainstorms.
- Tune-up your bike if necessary. – Is your bike rusted from being kept outside for too long? Before taking it out for a ride, make sure your tires have sufficient air, your chain is functioning and rust-free, and your brakes are working.
Whether you are a local or visiting South Florida, it is important to follow these safety tips to get the most out of the springtime. If you or a loved one has been in an accident, whether it is a personal injury, auto accident, or medical malpractice, consider contacting an attorney who specializes in these claims.
At Panter, Panter & Sampedro, our attorneys are experienced in personal injury, auto accidents, medical malpractice, wrongful death, and other areas. Call us today to schedule a free consultation at (305) 662-6178 or visit PanterLaw.com
References:
Vega, M. – SafeBee’s Top Spring Safety Tips (n.d) Retrieved on February 5, 2020, from http://safebee.com/health/safebees-top-spring-safety-tips
Spring Forward and Review Your Safety Checklist (n.d) Retrieved on February 5, 2020, from https://nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonal-safety/spring
